Between the tablet, the TV, and video games, I feel like he’s playing less and less than before. That’s why I decided to organize a playdate with his best friend. I wanted them to run around, play with toys, make up stories, get dirty, without worrying about winning points in a digital game.
At first, my son protested. Mom, but we can play online, he said, giving me that pleading look. I explained that I wanted them to have an afternoon without technology. When his friend arrived, I put a box full of Legos, paints, and even a ball in front of them. They just stared at it at first, looking kind of lost. But after a while, laughter filled the house. They invented a game where they were explorers and even built a secret cabin with sheets.
It made me so happy to see them playing like we used to as kids. But I also wonder, how do you all handle screen time? It feels like such a battle these days!
Ugh, yes, this is such a thing now. My son is the same age, and I swear, if he had it his way, he’d have a controller glued to his hands 24/7. We also had to do a forced screen detox playdate, and omg, at first, it was like they forgot how to exist without a screen! 
They just sat there awkwardly, waiting for something to entertain them. But once we got them outside with some chalk and water balloons, it was like magic. They got so into it, and now they actually ask to do real, life playdates instead of just gaming. It’s exhausting, but it does get easier with consistency!
I can totally relate! We had a camping trip last year where we had zero service, and my kids acted like I had sent them into exile. The first day was rough, constant I’m bored and what do we do now? But by the second day, they were building forts out of sticks, making up ghost stories, and even playing card games with us. It was such a reminder that kids can play without screens, but they just don’t get as many opportunities to do it. Now we do a no, screen Sunday every week, and honestly, it’s been a game, changer
You’re definitely not alone! It feels impossible to compete with screens, but moments like the one you described make it so worth it. My 7 year old was the exact same way, resisting at first but then having the best time once he got into it. The good news? The more you do it, the less they fight it!
I feel this so much. It’s like screens are their first choice for everything now. We try to set limits, but the second they’re not on screens, they’re bored. How do you handle the transition? Do you give them options like you did with the Legos and paints, or do you let them figure it out on their own?
What’s worked for us is setting a clear structure. We have screen, free hours every day, and after the initial protests, they got used to it. One thing that made a huge difference was getting them into activities they actually love, my oldest started karate, and my youngest got into crafting. When they have something to look forward to, they don’t miss screens as much. It’s not about banning screens entirely, but more about balancing them with other fun things
Wow, I love these ideas! I hadn’t thought about making screen, free time a regular thing instead of just one, off playdates. Definitely going to try that. Thanks for sharing your experiences, it’s so helpful to know I’m not alone in this! 
As a mom I can say this: you’re doing the right thing now. When my son was little, we were very lax with screen time and gosh, breaking those habits later on was so much harder. With my youngest, we set limits early on and it’s been a totally different experience. They still play video games, but it’s not their default. Keep at it, you’re creating habits that will help you in the long run!